Results and reports by Event

Day 4: Tension was high. We had done all the work in the past few days. All we had today (!) was to row over in front of Caius again. On Friday we had been well clear of them for the entire race, but could we do it again?!

We met at 12 for a pre-race paddle. But then there wasn't enough time to go home between this and the race... So we played giant Jenga :) When it was finally time to boat for the race, we were relieved. We were ready and waiting just made us more nervous. The paddle up was more tense than it had been in the past few days, but still nice and powerful.

Finally we were on the start, the gun went and we were off. At least now we could do something about our nerves! As in the past few days, we used them well and converted them into speed. Caius were slightly closer today than before and we did feel under pressure for the entire course. Coming up to the Railway Bridge, our tiredness bagan to show and I worried that we would falter on the very last hurdle. But we pulled through the finish line well clear of Caius. Again they had never come within station. WE DID IT!!! The first Clare Ladies VIII to gain the Lent Headship!

Spirits were high as we pulled in to open champagne and greet our supporters on the bank. It was great to see so many old and new Clare faces there to support us and it made the day even more special. We're sorry we did not get to see everyone before we were ordered into the boat for a celebration paddle... interesting with the flag and a bottle of champagne... maybe not the best paddling we have ever done, but we were definitely happy!!!

Uploaded Sunday 5th March, 11:00